Black Cat first appeared in the August 1941 issue of Pocket Comics #1, published by Harvey Comics and created by Al Gabriele. Black Cat was a stunt woman and actress who used her skills to become a costumed heroine and thwart Nazi spies in Hollywood. She proved very popular and got her own title by 1946. I personally have always loved this character because it is one of the earliest examples of the style of pointed domino mask later worn by so many of my favorite comic characters. Of all the nearly-forgotten Golden Age heroines who have entered the public domain in recent years, I think Black Cat has had the most interesting second life. I don't know if this is just my experience, but when I go to conventions and art shows, I see her image everywhere. Painted on clocks, glued onto magnets, dipped in epoxy. There must be something about her simple stylish costume and penchant for acrobatics and motorcycles that appeals to these artists. Either way, I approve. Let's check her out below!
In 2021, BigBadToyStore and Fresh Monkey Fiction unveiled this exclusive Amazing Heroes Retroverse Series 7 featuring ten female characters. These were the first females figures in this retro "Secret Wars" aesthetic and included some of the oldest female comic characters ever. In fact, for this series I had to create a new tag of "Era - Thirties." Previously my oldest figures were two Fleischer Lois Lane figures based in the 1940s era, so I love the history being represented here. Series 7 was a crowdfunding-type endeavor with a minimum number of BBTS pre-orders required before going into production. Luckily the collector community got on board.
Here are some solicit images of the customizable Blank Slate character. I did not purchase this, but I like including the images so you can see the construction and pieces developed for this exclusive wave.
I love an excuse to make an infographic. I just wanted to stress the time period at play here. Most of these Retroverse characters pre-date Wonder Woman and are clustered around that magical year, 1941. I don't know what societal factors were in play that year, but the sheer amount of new characters was impressive.
Time for some Group and Comparison Pics!
Here are my eight Series 7 figures. From Left to Right: Phantom Lady, Black Cat, Lady Satan, Fantomah, Miss Fury, Bulletgirl, Miss Masque, and Queen of the Jungle. (I did not buy the modern Cassie figure from Hack/Slash nor the customizable Blank Slate).
Cheers!
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